The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Honda CB350 are two popular bikes in India’s 350cc segment, each offering unique strengths in style, performance, and features. The Hunter 350 features an air-oil cooled, single-cylinder engine with a signature engine sound, while the CB350 has a long-stroke engine that provides smoother and more refined torque delivery. The Hunter 350 has a 20.21 PS output, while the CB350 has a 21.07 PS output.
In terms of ride comfort and handling, the Hunter 350 has an updated suspension for Indian road conditions, making the ride quality more cushioned, with more ground clearance at 160mm. The CB350, on the other hand, has a cradle frame with telescopic forks and twin hydraulic shocks, giving a neutral feel when riding. The Hunter 350 is more agile and confidence-building for new riders and city riders, while the CB350 is more spacious and favors taller riders.
The Hunter 350 and CB350 also differ in terms of features and tech. The Hunter 350’s Metro variant includes LED lighting, navigation, and a USB-C charger, while the CB350 has traction control and a more advanced digital cluster. Both bikes support Bluetooth connectivity and navigation, making them appealing to young riders.
In terms of mileage and efficiency, the Hunter 350 has a real-world mileage of 32-36 kmpl, with a 13-liter tank, while the CB350 claims 42.17 kmpl, with a 15-liter tank. The CB350’s efficiency edge makes it a better choice for those who take long rides.
The Hunter 350 is a retro-modern roadster, weighing in at 181kg, with well-finished paintwork and matte/metallic color variants. The CB350, on the other hand, has a solid build quality and attention to detail design, making it feel like a grown-up retro cruiser. The Hunter 350 is more affordable, with an ex-showroom price of 1.5 lakhs, while the CB350 has an ex-showroom price of 2.18 lakhs.
Ultimately, the choice between the Hunter 350 and CB350 depends on individual preferences. If style, city agility, and value are top priorities, the Hunter 350 is a better choice. However, if refinement, highway comfort, and a feature-rich package are more important, the CB350 is worth the premium. The Hunter 350 is suitable for those who want a stylish and easy-to-handle motorcycle for city riding, while the CB350 is ideal for those who value touring comfort, tech, and modern safety features.
The pros and cons of each bike are as follows:
Royal Enfield Hunter 350:
Pros: attractive pricing, lightweight and beginner-friendly, improved ride quality and comfort.
Cons: firm rear suspension, slightly cramped for two, fewer electronic features than CB350.
Honda CB350:
Pros: superior refinement and low-end torque, better feature set, excellent highway stability and mileage.
Cons: pricier, slightly heavier feel at slow speed.
In conclusion, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Honda CB350 are both excellent bikes in their own right, catering to different needs and preferences. The Hunter 350 is a better choice for new riders and regular city riding, while the CB350 is ideal for those who prioritize touring comfort, tech, and modern safety features.